Anti-inflammatory Spice Blends
Herbs and spices are nature’s most potent anti-inflammatory compounds.
Herbs and spices were people’s original medicine. Their intense colors, fragrance, and flavors give us a peek into their potency. Some, like turmeric, have now become famous for their anti-inflammatory qualities. But many more are similarly powerful, including basil, parsley, rosemary, cilantro, oregano, cloves, garlic, ginger, cumin, cinnamon, coriander, and paprika. Herbs and spices are also largely responsible for a food’s cultural and flavor footprint. Like vegetables and fruits, herbs and spices take a lead role in every anti-inflammatory meal!
The recipes in the Anti-inflammatory Family Cookbook are built on a foundation of anti-inflammatory spice blends, butters and sauces. Here are a few of our custom blends. We have lots more in the Book!
Basic Anti-Inflammatory Blend
This is a delicious combination of some of the most powerful anti-inflammatory spices we have. You can use it pretty much anywhere--as a seasoning on roasted veggies, a rub for meat or fish, or as a flavor base for beans, grains and soups. Double or triple the recipe to make it in a larger batch and always have it on hand.
Yields 2 1/2 tablespoons Prep Time: 5 minutes
2 teaspoons ground turmeric
2 teaspoons ground cumin
2 teaspoons ground coriander
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/2 teaspoon dry mustard powder
1/2 teaspoon ginger powder
Combine ground spices in a jar. Mix well.
Sweet Spice Blend
This spice blend is not sweet on its own, but is a fantastic accompaniment to many naturally sweet foods. It is delicious mixed into granola, chocolate fondue or used to make Sweet Spiced Delicata Squash. It can be hard to find star anise already ground, so grind it in a spice or coffee grinder - or leave it out, and it’s still delicious! Double or triple the recipe. Once it’s in arm’s reach, you’ll find many uses for it!
Yield: 2 1/4 tablespoons Prep time: 5 minutes
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
1 tablespoon ground cardamom
1/2 teaspoon ground clove
1/2 teaspoon ground star anise
Combine ground spices in a jar. Mix well.
Tex Mex Spice Blend
This is our homemade version of chili powder. It’s a simple, versatile, and deeply tasty spice blend that is especially handy in spicing up beans and dips.
Yield: ¼ cup (serving size: 1 teaspoon) Prep time: 5 minutes
1 tablespoon sweet paprika
1 tablespoon cumin
1 tablespoon oregano
1 1/2 teaspoons red chili flakes
3/4 t black pepper
Combine ground spices in a jar. Mix well.
